Which African cobra species has the common name 'black-necked spitting cobra'?

The African cobra species with the common name “black-necked spitting cobra” is Naja nigricollis. It is a moderately sized spitting cobra found across much of sub-Saharan Africa, especially in savannas, semi-deserts, and other open habitats.

Its scientific name helps explain the common name: nigricollis combines Latin words meaning “black” and “neck.” Like other spitting cobras, it can project venom from specialized fangs toward a threat’s eyes. The venom can cause intense irritation, blistering, and serious eye injuries, including blindness if it is not promptly washed out.

The species is often confused with related cobras. Formerly recognized subspecies, including the zebra spitting cobra and black spitting cobra, are now generally placed under Naja nigricincta. King cobras and Egyptian cobras are different species and do not share this particular common name.

Black-necked spitting cobras mainly hunt small rodents and can climb well, sometimes sheltering in tree hollows, abandoned rodent holes, or termite mounds.